Gabrielle Kirkland
Squaw Valley,California
Summary
Strong leader and problem-solver dedicated to streamlining operations to decrease costs and promote organizational efficiency. Uses independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success. Dedicated agribusiness professional with a history of meeting company goals utilizing consistent and organized practices. Skilled in working under pressure and adapting to new situations and challenges to best enhance the organizational brand.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Grants
California Farmworker Foundation
08.2022 - Current
- Increased awarded grants by identifying new funding opportunities and cultivating relationships with funders.
- Improved grant management efficiency by implementing a tracking system for submission deadlines, reporting requirements, and award amounts.
- Enhanced collaboration within the organization by providing regular updates on grant activities and progress toward goals.
- Contributed to organizational strategic planning efforts through analysis of funding trends and identification of potential revenue streams.
- Strengthened partnerships between organizations by coordinating joint grant applications for collaborative projects or programs.
Lecturer
California State University, Fresno
01.2023 - 06.2023
- Increased undergrad student's interest by incorporating real-world examples into lessons and connecting material to relevant experiences.
- Cultivated critical thinking skills through challenging assignments that required analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of information from various sources.
- Created intense learning opportunities for students both in the classroom and in the community.
Director of Business Development & Distribution
CopperPoint Insurance
01.2021 - 03.2022
- Increased client base by developing and implementing effective business development strategies.
- Enhanced company's market presence through targeted networking events and relationship building.
- Secured new partnerships by identifying and pursuing potential collaborators within various industries.
- Generated significant revenue growth with implementation of innovative marketing campaigns.
Agricultural Marketing Manager /Insurance Underwriter
Zenith Insurance Company
08.2011 - 01.2021
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent branding across all company touchpoints and communications channels.
- Streamlined processes in underwriting and marketing departments for more efficient project management and resource allocation.
- Conducted thorough workers' compensation competitor analysis to maintain competitive edge in market space.
- Managed budgets, allocating funds strategically towards high-impact initiatives that supported overall business goals.
Director of Membership Services
California Fresh Fruit Association
12.2005 - 08.2011
- Streamlined membership processes for increased efficiency and improved member experience.
- Developed strategic partnerships with industry organizations, expanding membership reach and driving growth.
Staff Writer
The Packer Newspaper
12.2003 - 12.2005
- Collaborated with editors to refine content, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and cohesiveness for publication.
- Developed strong working relationships with sources, resulting in exclusive interviews and unique article content.
Education
MBA - Agricultural Business
California State University, Fresno
Fresno, CA05.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Mass Communication & Journalism
California State University, Fresno
Fresno, CA05.2002
Skills
- Project Management
- Business Development
- Budget Control
- Creativity and Innovation
- Strategic Planning
- Verbal and Written Communication
- Marketing Strategy
- Risk Management
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Partnerships and Alliances
Additional Information
- Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, Administrate Council. April 2024 to present. Funded through USDA's National Institute for Food and Agriculture to provide competitive grants and educational materials to advance farm and ranch systems.
- Eco Farm, 2024 Conference volunteer. January 2024. Annual conference brings growers from Western states together to discuss important issues affecting agricultural production.
- California State University Fresno Humanics Program. Mentor. January 2015-2018. Humanics program prepares students for professional careers in community based leadership.
- Mennonite Brethren Homes Palm Village. Board and Executive Committee. January 2010- June 2023. A 320-bed continuing care retirement community that serves rural communities in Fresno County.
Timeline
Lecturer
California State University, Fresno
01.2023 - 06.2023
Director of Grants
California Farmworker Foundation
08.2022 - Current
Director of Business Development & Distribution
CopperPoint Insurance
01.2021 - 03.2022
Agricultural Marketing Manager /Insurance Underwriter
Zenith Insurance Company
08.2011 - 01.2021
Director of Membership Services
California Fresh Fruit Association
12.2005 - 08.2011
Staff Writer
The Packer Newspaper
12.2003 - 12.2005
MBA - Agricultural Business
California State University, Fresno
Bachelor of Arts - Mass Communication & Journalism
California State University, Fresno
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